Mizoram’s capital Aizawl was connected to India’s rail network for the first time as PM Modi inaugurated the Bairabi–Sairang broad-gauge rail link (length ~51.4 km, cost ~₹8,070 crore). This long‑awaited project overcame extremely difficult terrain – 45 tunnels and 143 bridges were built – to finally bring trains to the northeast’s seventh state. The Prime Minister flagged off three new train services: a Delhi–Sairang Rajdhani Express (thrice-weekly), an Aizawl–Guwahati train (daily), and an Aizawl–Kolkata train (thrice-weekly). He hailed the rail line as a “lifeline of transformation” for Mizoram.
Key facts about the Bairabi–Sairang railway:
Engineering Feat: The line snakes through misty hills, requiring 45 tunnels (total ~12.85 km) and 143 bridges (55 major, 88 minor). One signature bridge (Bridge No.196) soars 114 m high – taller than the Qutub Minar. The longest tunnel (No.40) is ~1.37 km in length. These structures were built with eco-sensitive methods to minimize deforestation.
Cost & Completion: Built at an estimated ₹8,000–8,070 crore, the project faced delays due to landslides, weather, and COVID lockdowns. Yet it was fast‑tracked in recent years. Prime Minister Modi had laid the foundation stone back in 2014.
Connectivity Gains: Once operational, the rail line joins Sairang (just outside Aizawl) to the national network. It markedly cuts travel time and cost: freight movement into Mizoram will be ~20% cheaper, and goods like oranges and vegetables can reach markets quickly. This is expected to spur growth in agriculture and horticulture. For passengers, the trains provide affordable year-round access for travel, trade and healthcare to cities like Delhi and Kolkata.
Economic Impact: Estimates project that Mizoram’s GDP will rise by ₹500–700 crore annually due to the rail. Tourism is also projected to jump (perhaps +50% in 5 years) as travelers find it easier to visit Aizawl. Towns along the route can attract investment in business and manufacturing.
State’s Fourth Rail Link: With this link, Mizoram becomes the fourth northeast state with rail service to its capital (after Assam, West Bengal–Tripura, Meghalaya). The new trains are viewed as a major gift to the people of the hill state since Independence.
In his address, Mr. Modi emphasized that the rail line was built by Indian engineers and materials sourced from around India, symbolizing national unity. He noted that connectivity must be matched by local entrepreneurship: farmers and youth should seize the opportunity to grow orchards, tea and other goods to send out by rail. At the same time, he cautioned that development should be sensitive to Mizoram’s unique culture and environment. Overall, analysts say this rail link is a game-changer for northeast integration under the government’s Act East and Make-in-India strategies.
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